Wine chillers: How to choose
Consider these factors:
Built-in or freestanding. Built-ins are typically about 34 inches high and 24 inches deep; freestanding can be taller or narrower.
Capacity. Undercounter units can hold about 45 to 60 bottles.
How you’ll use it. If your interest is long-term storage, or chilling just one type of wine, look for a one-compartment model with very good
temperature uniformity.
If you want to chill more than one type of wine for serving, you’ll want temperature variability. Recommended serving temperatures
range from about 40 to 65 degrees F, with sparkling wines at the cooler end, most whites in the middle, and most reds toward
the warmer end.
One option is a one-compartment unit that’s warmer at the top, cooler below. Better yet is a unit with two well-controlled
temperature environments; the Sub-Zero 424G/0 did best, varying just 3 degrees F at normal room temperature.
Useful features. Electronic controls let you set a specific temperature. Other useful features include pull-out shelves, reversible door,
door lock, interior light, and the option to accept a custom-cabinet frame.
Energy costs. Some units used as much energy as a full-sized refrigerator. Using average electricity costs, the best would cost $15 a year,
the worst would cost $32 a year.
Noise. This is an issue if the chiller is in the kitchen or another central location.
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